In the modern world of business, it’s who you know, rather than what you know that opens the door to greater opportunities. Building a network is a vital part of a business’s initial and long-term success.
But knowing where to start can be difficult. Here are some tips for building a strong network that can help take your business from strength to strength.
Know what you want
Before you begin networking, you need to ask yourself some important questions. What are your goals? What are you hoping to accomplish? Are you looking for new clients? New opportunities? New collaborations? Do some research on the people you want to connect with before you start trying to connect with them.
Stand out
Easy to say, perhaps a little more difficult to accomplish – but don’t feel overwhelmed. Think back on others who made an impression on you – not just in business, but in a personal interaction, even a momentary one. Ask yourself why they made an impression. What made them stand out? This can be anything from appearance (an item of clothing) to a unique opening line, an eye-catching marketing asset, and the list goes on.
Practice makes perfect
Practice your pitch and ask a personal or even professional connection to listen to it. Getting another person’s perspective on it can open your eyes to new angles and give you the much-needed confidence that comes from having a well-practiced pitch. It can help improve your body language, the words you use, and the way you come across.
Your approach
Approach is everything. Always go into networking thinking just as much about what you can do for others as what they can do for you. When in conversation, look for common ground, things you can agree on, and ways that you feel the same.
Be culturally aware
Different cultures demonstrate respect and interest in different ways. Do some research into the cultures of the people you’re looking to connect with. Things like eye contact, when to speak, what kind of greeting to use, which hand you use to give them your business card, and much more, can have a big impact on your interactions, depending on who you are talking to.
Branch out
You don’t have to stick to official networking events. Platforms like Meetup connect individuals with the same interests. You can join book clubs, hikes, walks, social groups, and many different types of events. If the event or interest you’re looking for isn’t there, host it yourself.
Think balance
When it comes to building a strong professional network, don’t just focus on one goal. Just because you don’t need something now, that doesn’t mean you won’t need it in the future. Whether it’s job hunting, partnerships, new ventures, counsel and advice, development of skills, personal branding, or any other aspect of business, try to make connections that form a well-rounded network that can fulfil all your needs.
